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With the introduction of the new MAN i6X engine generation for yachts and sport fishing boats, MAN Engines is developing its in-line six-cylinder platform in a targeted manner. With a new top output of 1,000 hp (735 kW), the 12.4-litre engine expands its range of applications into the upper power range. The new engine type is designed to combine higher power requirements with a compact design and improved dynamics in operation.
The MAN i6X is largely based on the established MAN D2676 technical platform, which was introduced in 2015 for workboats and, under the name MAN i6, for yachts. The performance-enhanced MAN i6X shares many common parts with the existing MAN i6 series. A newly developed turbocharging concept, which still requires only a single turbocharger, makes a significant contribution to the increase in performance.
This approach opens up new areas of application on a mature technical basis, while deliberately limiting complexity and system weight. The new i6X designation clearly distinguishes this further-developed performance level from the existing MAN i6, while still classifying it within the established in-line six-cylinder platform.
“With the MAN i6X, we are taking our proven in-line six-cylinder platform into higher performance ranges. The innovative turbocharging concept creates clear advantages in the powertrain that were previously not available in this form.”
— Reiner Rößner, Head of Sales, MAN Engines
Further development of the MAN i6X focuses on the functional areas relevant to its higher performance range, including a new charging system and thermal management. An advanced intercooling system, together with an extended, demand-driven oil cooling concept, ensures stable operating conditions even under high loads and enables continuous output within defined application profiles.
At the same time, the MAN i6X remains closely linked to existing engine variants. The high proportion of shared components supports the technical maturity of the concept and carries proven design principles into the new power range. For operators, this means familiar structures and system logic are retained for maintenance and operation.
The central feature of the MAN i6X is its newly developed turbocharging concept. The engine is designed to achieve high performance values using a single-stage system. In this power class, this represents an independent approach, as comparable performance levels are often implemented using multi-stage charging systems. The MAN i6X, by contrast, pursues the goal of reducing complexity and specific weight while ensuring a highly dynamic response.
The design of the engine deliberately focuses on the interplay of performance, dynamics and reduced specific fuel consumption compared to the predecessor variant. A key focus is the rapid availability of maximum torque of 3,250 Nm, resulting in agile acceleration behaviour. For yacht and sport fishing applications, this means increased power and dynamics are delivered not only in the rated power range, but especially in situations requiring immediate propulsion response — such as accelerating or manoeuvring at lower speeds.
“With the MAN i6X, we have developed the
performance of our tried-and-tested D26 series for our customers in a unique
way, so that they combine greater dynamics and higher power density with lower
fuel consumption and proven reliability.”
— Werner Kübler (Head of Engineering)
The chosen concept has a direct effect on the engine’s power-to-weight ratio, which reaches 0.8 hp/kg (approximately 0.6 kW/kg) at a displacement of 12.4 litres.
“The MAN i6X thus sets a new benchmark in this class. For our customers, this means high performance from a compact, clearly structured engine platform.”
— Reiner Rößner, Head of Sales, MAN Engines
For shipyards and system integrators, this creates additional design freedom for yacht and sport fishing applications — particularly where power, dynamics, weight and integration effort interact closely together.
The new MAN i6X engine generation is designed for international markets and meets the relevant emission requirements: IMO Tier II, EPA Tier III, and the EU Recreational Craft Directive 2013/53/EU. The MAN i6X has almost the same dimensions as the MAN i6, with customer interfaces remaining identical — allowing it to be integrated into existing ship concepts and used across different regulatory frameworks.
The MAN i6X will be presented at the Cannes Yachting Festival, held from 8 to 13 September 2026, at the MAN Engines stand at the Vieux Port, Jetée Nord, Jetée 193. The engine will be available as a standard offering from the first quarter of 2028.